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[captainjerky]

Hey all-

I have finally gotten most of the bugs out of my X10 setup.  Now, though, I need a little more reach to cover the far end of the house.  I have several units that aren't receiving commands due to the distance from my CM-15.  I suppose line noise could be an issue, but the CM-15 is clear on the other side of the house from these units and all my other units work fine with timers, macros, etc.  The switches work if I manually turn the wall switch on as well.
So, what is a good repeater to buy, especially if I need to go with bang for the buck? I've seen the XTBII mentioned a lot, but it's a bit pricey.  I've run across the RR-501, and that seems like it works as a signal repeater, as well, but I'm guessing I'd need one for each house code that my lights are on. 
Anyway, could anyone correct my errors or make a suggestion?  Since I can get the RR-501 for $15 I wouldn't mind buying several if I have to, but if something more dramatic like the XTB is called for, I'll just have to save up for that if necessary.
Thanks,
Ryan
 

[Brian H]

The RR501 is not a repeater. It is the big brother of the TM751. It is a Tranceiver and takes X10 RF commands and sends them back on the power line. It is polite where the TM751 is not and you can pick Unit Code 1 or 9 while the TM751 is hard wired to Unit Code 1. RR501 will also answer a Status Request.

If you decide to go with a X10 repeater. You can't beat the XTB-IIR. Though some have a passive coupler and a XTB mounted near the breaker box. I have not seen much feedback on the new XTBR model.

If you are looking at X10 repeater couplers. Just a heads up. We have seen some reports of the Leviton HCA02 and Smarthome Dryer repeater getting in to X10 signal firestorms and locking up the whole system with a CM15A.

[captainjerky]

Thanks, that's what I needed to know!

[glacier991]

And of course, in the transceiver category, there is the grandaddy... al all coes transciever with a separate antenna... not cheap but WOW....http://www.smarthomeusa.com/ShopByManufacturer/WGL/Item/V572AB/

[Dave4720]

but it's a bit pricey.

My three cents (inflation …)

I have a few RR501s gathering dust now that I have a V572 transceiver. Hated wanting to add another HC to implement a thing, only to realize I didn’t have a receiver on that HC.

IMO, an X10 transceiver and an AC line transmitter / repeater is at the core of the system.  The V572 inputs digitally directly to the XBT-IIR.  The XBT-IIR stomps. Once I set those key components in place, I have NEVER had an RF reception problem or a signal strength problem.

I’d say bite the wallet bullet, put excellent core products in place, then add the peripheral components.  Things just work better that way.

I have wasted more money trying the low-cost route.  Even tried to avoid getting an X10 meter because of the expense.  Now that I have one, I've lost count of the issues / problems I've solved.

If I were to do it again, I’d V572/XTB-IIR/XTBM from day one.

[Brian H]

I have never tried it, but the XTB-IIR has a TW523 type interface in it. I would say the V572 could be directly interfaced to it for maximum benefits.

[lflorack]

My three cents (inflation …)

I have a few RR501s gathering dust now that I have a V572 transceiver. Hated wanting to add another HC to implement a thing, only to realize I didn't have a receiver on that HC.

IMO, an X10 transceiver and an AC line transmitter / repeater is at the core of the system.  The V572 inputs digitally directly to the XBT-IIR.  The XBT-IIR stomps. Once I set those key components in place, I have NEVER had an RF reception problem or a signal strength problem.

I'd say bite the wallet bullet, put excellent core products in place, then add the peripheral components.  Things just work better that way.

I have wasted more money trying the low-cost route.  Even tried to avoid getting an X10 meter because of the expense.  Now that I have one, I've lost count of the issues / problems I've solved.

If I were to do it again, I'd V572/XTB-IIR/XTBM from day one.

Although I don't have the V572 yet, I DO have the XTB-IIR and XTBM.  I agree that they are superior in every way and they are both well-built and excellent performers.  They have both saved me a TON of issues (or helped me immensely to find them).  I will also say that if, in the future, I find that I need even one more transceiver (I currently have three), I will be getting a V572 too. 

Getting the right products in the first place makes this X10 hobby a lot less frustrating   

[Geewiz]

I've got to give a solid vote of confidence to the XTB-IIR.   Since installing it, there is not a dead spot to be found in my +4,100 sq ft house. 

[hawk1]

I third that (or what ever number is up to!) XTB-IIR  Never been happier! 

[Brandt]

got the XTB-IIR and never looked back. Also got a w800usb as is keeps the power lines cleaner than the other one.

[Noam]

I know this post is a little old, but I have to put my vote for the XTB-IIR, as well.

Not only is the XTB-IIR a very well-designed and well-build device, but its creator, Jeff Volp, is really a stand-up guy. Not only does he stand behind his product 100%, but he was also willing to help me troubleshoot my (seemingly unrelated to the XTB-IIR) problem.

Installing the XTB-IIR boosted my PLC signal level enough to reach everywhere in my home (and then some, probably!).

No need for a V572 yet - a length of insulated electrical wire taped alongside the CM15A's antenna seems to have improved my RF reception well enough for now. I might try the external antenna mod someday.

--Noam